Growth and Development

Dental growth and development is a complex process that begins before birth and continues throughout childhood and adolescence. Here are some points to consider:

Formation of Primary Teeth

The formation of primary teeth begin before birth. It's not until around 6 months after birth that the first primary teeth start to erupt through the gums. The full set of primary teeth (20 in total) usually emerges by age 3.

Formation of Permanent Teeth

The formation of permanent teeth begins at birth. It's not until around 6 that the first permanent teeth begin to erupt. This is followed by the eruption of the remaining permanent teeth up until age 12-14, with the exception of the wisdom teeth, which typically erupt in late adolescence.

Factors Affecting Dental Growth and Development

Multiple factors affect dental growth and development, including genetics, nutrition, and environmental factors such as trauma, infection, and disease. Growth and development may also be influenced by oral habits like prolonged pacifier use, thumb sucking, and/or tongue thrusting.

Importance of Early Dental Care and Orthodontic Treatment

Good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout childhood and into adulthood. Early dental care can also help identify and address issues with dental growth and development, such as crooked teeth or bite problems. Correcting these issues early with appliances like expanders and braces allows for the preservation and enhancement of your child's teeth, jaw bones, and airway and will help set your child up for a lifetime of optimal oral health.

Dental growth and development is a lifelong process that requires proper care and attention early-on to ensure optimal oral health. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene habits, and early intervention for any potential growth issues can help create and maintain healthy teeth and gums, and a healthy bite throughout your child's lifetime.

https://www.aapd.org/globalassets/media/policies_guidelines/r_dentalgrowth.pdf